CORRECT TACK CODE FOR SHOWING

To show your horse off to the best effect make sure the saddle fits well, is immaculately clean and appropriate for the class in which you are competing. A numnah is not necessary for showing however if you do wish to wear one make it discreet and fit well. Try colours like brown or black - save the pinks for hacking out! If you can afford a leather girth to match your saddle then perfect. However, if not, try a synthetic girth in a subtle colour like brown or black to match with your saddle. White girths are sometimes worn but mainly in hack classes.

The jacket should be long enough to cover the back of the saddle when mounted. The arms of you riding jacket should be long enough to cover your shirt cuffs when you ride. Good quality jackets have a very good second-hand value. A Navy/Black jacket is traditionally worn for most showing classes (hack, breeds). A Tweed jacket is worn for classes such as Working Hunter and Ridden Horse.

Beige, Buff or Deep Canary Yellow are popular jodhpur colours for showing classes. White is more commonly seen in showjumping. Boots should obviously be clean and polished to perfection. Long leather boots should have garter straps attached and spurs (dummy or real) should be worn. Brown leather gloves are correct when showing and can be bought in many different shades ranging from tan to dark brown, or the currently popular mustard colour. A simple brown leather show cane is appropriate. A brown leather whip is correct for working hunter classes. It is quite usual to see riders still wearing the more traditional hunting cap, bowlers, beagling hats and top hats on showgrounds - especially adults.The ribbons at the back of a show hat should be sewn up. However, the hats currently considered to provide the best available protection are: EN1384, PAS 015 and ASTM F1163. It is must be noted that Retack Ltd accepts no liability to the 2nd hand hats sold as they may fall beneath standards recommended.

CARING FOR YOUR HAT
Always keep your hat in a box or bag to protect it when not using so doesn't pick up dust etc. To clean your hat place hat over a boiling kettle and let the steam over the hat, then use a brush or damp cloth to wipe. Leave to dry. Alternatively try Charles Owens' Hat Cleaner and Deodorizer.